Abia State centralizes transport operations at new Umuahia bus terminal

The Abia State Government has mandated the centralization of all transport operations in Umuahia at the newly established Nnenna Otti Bus Terminal. This directive, announced by Information Commissioner Okey Kanu following a State Executive Council meeting, aims to consolidate services, improve commuter safety, and streamline traffic management by eliminating multiple motor parks.

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There appears to be some pushback from among some operators because people do not easily embrace change.

The phased implementation has already seen the Abia Green Shuttle Buses commence operations, with informal transport operators and unions moving into the facility. The next phase will include formal transport companies such as God is Good, GUO Motors, and Young Shall Grow. Enforcement measures are in place to ensure compliance across the state.

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What is happening is that all parks in the state have been moved to the bus terminal.

Commissioner for Transport Chimezie Ukaegbu emphasized that the reform is designed to organize the transport sector rather than displace individuals. He noted that operators have been encouraged to register their workers and that the terminal employs a transparent, first-come, first-served loading system. Ukaegbu stated that 80 to 90 percent of transport operators have adopted the new arrangement, with ongoing consultations for remaining non-compliant entities.

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the initiative was designed “to organise the sector and not to deprive anyone of their means of livelihood”.

Despite some initial "pushback" from operators who are unaccustomed to change, officials are engaging them through meetings to address concerns. Kanu mentioned that the Commissioner for Transport and his team are actively involved in these discussions. The government also highlighted the cordial relationship between federal and state governments, referencing a tour of projects by the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Presidential Media Team, which included inspections of infrastructure and development projects.

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between 80 and 90 per cent of transport operators had already embraced the new arrangement, while consultations continued with others that had yet to comply.